The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) witnessed an electrifying evening as Hollywood icon Will Smith graced the event, captivating audiences with his insights on storytelling and personal growth. The 57-year-old actor, dressed in a crisp white shirt and radiating his trademark charm, engaged in a heartfelt conversation with Emirati entrepreneur Anas Bukhash, leaving the crowd inspired and reflective. Smith’s appearance was met with enthusiastic cheers, with children perched on shoulders and attendees standing on seats to catch a glimpse of the star. A montage of his iconic film moments set the stage for his entrance, building anticipation for the evening’s dialogue. Smith, who authored the bestselling memoir ‘Will’ in 2021, described the writing process as a transformative experience that deepened his humility and self-awareness. ‘I encourage everyone to write your story,’ he urged. ‘It’s an enlightening process to articulate your experiences.’ He emphasized the universal power of storytelling, noting that narratives transcend cultural and racial boundaries. ‘There are universally relatable ideas that connect us all,’ he said. ‘My gift is identifying those elements that don’t require language to resonate.’ Smith expressed his excitement about the Middle East’s untapped storytelling potential, describing the region as a treasure trove of narratives spanning thousands of years. ‘I’m thrilled to collaborate with creatives here, uncover these stories, and bring them to the world,’ he shared. Reflecting on his personal journey, Smith spoke candidly about the pitfalls of social media and the importance of self-esteem. ‘Success in the material world doesn’t equate to happiness,’ he observed. ‘True fulfillment comes from knowing your work and gifts benefit others.’ He advised the audience to disconnect from digital distractions and embrace solitude for mental clarity. Smith also revealed his ongoing quest to reclaim his self-esteem from external validation, a process he described as a quiet but profound transformation. The event concluded with resounding applause, as attendees left with a renewed appreciation for storytelling and self-discovery.
分类： entertainment
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Salman Khan calls Dharmendra a father-figure as veteran actor recovers after hospitalisation
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan recently expressed deep admiration for veteran actor Dharmendra, whom he regards as a father-figure, during a press conference in Qatar. The emotional tribute came shortly after Dharmendra’s discharge from a Mumbai hospital following a health scare. Salman, who was among the first to visit Dharmendra during his hospitalization, emphasized their close bond and wished for his swift recovery. Speaking ahead of his Da-Bangg The Tour Reloaded event, Salman was asked about his early fitness inspirations. Without hesitation, he credited Dharmendra as a pivotal influence, stating, ‘He is my father, that’s the end. I love that man, and I just hope that he will come back.’ The audience erupted in cheers, chanting, ‘Long live Dharam ji!’ The two actors have shared a warm relationship for decades, with Dharmendra often affectionately referring to Salman as ‘beta’ (son) and even suggesting him as the ideal choice to portray him in a biopic. Dharmendra, 89, was discharged on Wednesday, with his family requesting privacy as he continues his recovery at home. The legendary actor, last seen in ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,’ is set to appear in Sriram Raghavan’s ‘Ikkis’ this December. Meanwhile, Salman, who recently starred in ‘Sikandar’ and made a cameo in Aryan Khan’s web series ‘The Ba**ds of Bollywood,’ continues to host ‘Bigg Boss 19.’ His upcoming project, ‘Battle of Galwan,’ directed by Apoorva Lakhia, is highly anticipated.
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‘Really want to see Will Smith’: Fans brave rush hour to listen to Hollywood star at SIBF
The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) witnessed an electrifying atmosphere as fans eagerly gathered to catch a glimpse of Hollywood icon Will Smith. The 57-year-old Academy Award-winning actor took the stage as a guest speaker to delve into the transformative power of storytelling. Accompanied by entrepreneur and podcast host Anas Bukhash, Smith engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue that captivated the audience. Despite the rush hour, dedicated fans like Alicia, an Argentinian expat and restaurant owner, drove over an hour from Jumeirah to attend the event. “I’m a huge fan of Will Smith and Anas Bukhash,” she shared. “I rushed here after a meeting just to see him.” Known for his iconic roles in films like ‘Bad Boys,’ ‘Men in Black,’ and ‘Independence Day,’ Smith’s presence added star power to the fair’s final weekend. Organizers ensured a seamless experience with enhanced security, wristband distribution, and designated seating areas for Gold, Silver, Bronze, and VIP attendees. The 44th edition of SIBF, running until November 16, also featured luminaries like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Carlo Rovelli, and Paul Lynch, making it a cultural highlight of the year.
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Hollywood’s SAG Awards announces it will change its name
The Screen Actors Guild Awards, one of the most prestigious ceremonies honoring actors, has unveiled a significant rebranding. Known colloquially as the SAG Awards, the event will now be officially titled ‘The Actor Awards presented by Sag-Aftra.’ This change reflects the labor union’s commitment to celebrating actors and aligns with the global recognition of the event. The announcement was made during a board meeting on Friday, ahead of the 32nd edition of the ceremony, scheduled for March 1, 2026.
Jon Brockett, the show’s executive producer, emphasized that the new name provides clarity to viewers in over 190 countries. ‘The Actor Awards’ immediately conveys the essence of the event—a celebration of actors by actors. JoBeth Williams, chair of the awards committee, noted that while the union’s name may not be universally recognized, the term ‘Actor Awards’ resonates globally, promising audiences a showcase of their favorite stars.
The rebranding also highlights the significance of the Actor trophy, which has become a pivotal indicator in the lead-up to the Academy Awards. Much like the Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, and Golden Globes, the event is now better known by the name of its iconic statuette. This change further solidifies the merger between the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (Aftra) in 2012, representing approximately 160,000 members.
The announcement follows the recent election of Sean Astin, star of ‘The Lord of the Rings,’ as the new leader of Sag-Aftra. Astin succeeds Fran Drescher, who guided the organization through the 2023 Hollywood strikes during her four-year tenure. The rebranding marks a new chapter for the awards show, emphasizing its global appeal and dedication to the craft of acting.
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Cardi B welcomes fourth child, her first with boyfriend Stefon Diggs
Grammy-winning rap sensation Cardi B has announced the birth of her fourth child, her first with NFL star Stefon Diggs. The artist, whose real name is Belcalis Almánzar, shared the joyous news on Instagram, expressing her excitement about this new chapter in her life. “I brought new music and a new album to the world! A new baby into my world, and one more reason to be the best version of me,” she wrote. The baby boy’s arrival comes shortly after the release of her highly anticipated sophomore album, *Am I The Drama?*, which she humorously promoted as a means to afford diapers. Cardi B, who shares three children with her estranged husband Offset, filed for divorce in July 2024. While she has not disclosed specific details about the birth, her spokesperson confirmed to *People* magazine that both mother and baby are “healthy and happy.” Diggs, the New England Patriots wide receiver, revealed the baby’s gender during a recent red-carpet event, stating, “It’s a boy. That’s enough for me. I can’t wait to make him do push-ups and sit-ups and run around.” This marks the second child for Diggs, who has a 9-year-old daughter from a previous relationship. Cardi B also hinted at a fresh start in her Instagram post, sharing a clip from her single *Hello* and emphasizing her commitment to self-improvement and providing her children with the “love and life they deserve.” She told her 163 million followers that she is preparing for a tour to support her new album and is focused on delivering the “performance of a lifetime.” Reflecting on her personal growth, she wrote, “I’ve learned, I’ve healed, and I’m loving the woman I’ve become! That’s what this next era means to me, and I’m stepping into it better than ever.”
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The Aussie giving War & Peace a ‘bogan’ remake
In a bold and unconventional literary venture, Ander Louis, a Melbourne-based IT worker and part-time writer, has crafted a ‘bogan’ rendition of Leo Tolstoy’s monumental novel, ‘War & Peace.’ This unique adaptation transforms the 19th-century Russian aristocracy into a world filled with Australian slang, where princes become ‘drongos’ and princesses are referred to as ‘sheilas.’ Louis, whose real name is Andrew Tesoriero, began this project in 2018 as a humorous experiment, aiming to make the dense and often intimidating text more approachable and entertaining. The bogan version, characterized by its irreverent tone and casual language, has since garnered unexpected attention, particularly after excerpts were shared online by a New York-based tech writer. The sudden surge in interest led to a spike in sales, with Louis selling 50 copies overnight. He attributes this newfound popularity to the ‘Bluey effect,’ referencing the widespread appeal of Australian culture in the United States. Louis’s adaptation not only makes the classic more accessible but also challenges traditional notions of literary reverence, as he playfully reinterprets Tolstoy’s work through the lens of Australian colloquialism. Despite its unconventional approach, Louis believes that Tolstoy, who himself renounced his noble privileges later in life, might have appreciated the bogan version for its audacity and humor.
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Restaurant Review: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is a time machine on a plate
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is not merely a dining experience; it is a masterful exploration of British culinary history, reimagined through the innovative vision of world-renowned chef Heston Blumenthal. Located in Dubai, this restaurant transcends traditional dining, offering guests an immersive journey where each course tells a story rooted in centuries-old traditions, yet crafted with modern precision. From the moment you step into the elegantly designed space, with its polished wood, copper accents, and theatrical ambiance, you are transported into a gastronomic playground. The service is impeccable—warm, attentive, and executed with finesse. The menu, a blend of historical classics and contemporary creativity, is brought to life with dishes like the iconic Meat Fruit, a mandarin-shaped chicken liver parfait, and the indulgent Tipsy Cake, a slow-roasted pineapple dripping with caramel. Every detail, from the lighting to the giant copper pineapple used for roasting, contributes to an unforgettable sensory experience. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is more than a meal; it is a celebration of culinary artistry that invites diners to think, feel, and explore a world where history and innovation collide.
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Eid Al Etihad 2025: Sharjah announces music show, heritage market to kick off celebrations
Sharjah is gearing up to host an extraordinary series of events to mark the 54th Eid Al Etihad (Union Day) in 2025, celebrating the UAE’s enduring unity and progress. From November 19 to December 2, the emirate will transform into a hub of cultural and festive activities, spanning historical landmarks and tourist hotspots. The official opening ceremony will take place at Al Siyouh Family Park on November 19, setting the stage for two weeks of vibrant celebrations. Key venues include Kshisha Park, Sharjah National Park, and the newly added Al Layyah Canal, each offering a unique blend of traditional performances, youth panels, and family-friendly shows. A standout event will be the musical extravaganza at Khorfakkan Amphitheatre on November 29, featuring Emirati icons Hussain Al Jassmi and Fouad Abdelwahad. Other highlights include parades, heritage markets, operettas, and fireworks across locations like Al Batayeh, Al Dhaid, and Kalba. The festivities aim to reinforce the values of unity, loyalty, and national pride, creating a sense of community and shared achievement among citizens and residents.
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De De Pyaar De 2 Review: Ajay Devgn’s film is a passable entertainer
De De Pyaar De 2, the sequel to the 2019 romcom, attempts to revisit the age-gap romance trope but falls short of leaving a lasting impression. Directed by Anshul Sharma and co-written by Luv Ranjan and Tarun Jain, the film stars Ajay Devgn, Rakul Preet Singh, R. Madhavan, and Gautami Kapoor. While it offers moments of humor and charm, the film is marred by tonal inconsistencies, a lackluster plot, and underdeveloped characters. The story follows Ashish (Devgn), a 52-year-old man, and Ayesha (Singh), his 20-something lover, as they navigate the challenges of gaining her parents’ approval for their relationship. Despite a promising premise, the film struggles to balance its comedic and emotional elements, often resorting to exaggerated sequences and a caricatured climax. The performances are uneven, with Devgn appearing disengaged and Singh failing to deliver in emotional scenes. Madhavan and Kapoor shine as Ayesha’s parents, but the absence of Tabu, who brought depth to the first film, is keenly felt. De De Pyaar De 2 is a passable entertainer, suitable for a casual watch, but it lacks the substance needed to make a meaningful impact.
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Thai Select Fest 2025 returns to Dubai with Thailand’s biggest food and culture showcase
The Thai Select Fest 2025 is set to make a grand return to Dubai, promising an immersive celebration of Thailand’s rich culture, cuisine, and creativity. Scheduled from November 28 to 30, 2025, at the Dubai Media City Amphitheatre, this free-entry festival will transform the venue into a vibrant Thai village, offering a multi-sensory experience for visitors.
Organized by the Thai Trade Centre in Dubai under the Royal Thai Government’s Department of International Trade Promotion, the festival will showcase Thailand’s renowned ‘5Fs’: Food, Festival, Fashion, Film, and Fight. This year’s edition aims to strengthen cultural ties between Thailand and the UAE while highlighting Thailand’s creative economy and global appeal.
Attendees can look forward to a variety of activities, including traditional dance performances, live music, Muay Thai demonstrations, and hands-on craft workshops. A highlight of the event is the Loy Krathong Festival of Lights, where visitors can create and release their own krathongs into an illuminated pond, symbolizing renewal and positivity.
Food enthusiasts will be treated to authentic Thai dishes prepared by Thai Select-certified restaurants across the UAE, featuring favorites like Tom Yum Goong, Pad Thai, Som Tum, and Mango Sticky Rice. The festival will also feature fashion showcases by Thai designers, short-film screenings, and family-friendly areas with Thai games and crafts.
Pitichai Ratananaka, director of the Thai Trade Centre Dubai, emphasized the festival’s role in sharing Thailand’s soft power and creativity with the world. ‘This festival reflects Thailand’s spirit of hospitality, craftsmanship, and innovation — values that connect seamlessly with Dubai’s multicultural community,’ he said.
Event highlights include live Muay Thai shows and workshops, the Loy Krathong ceremony, a Thai Select Culinary Village, fashion and art exhibitions, a family fun zone, and daily raffles with exciting prizes, including air ticket giveaways. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook at @thaiselectfestival for updates and live highlights.